Turning Awareness into Action: Celebrating Mental Health Month

May is Mental Health Month! Every year, we spend the month shining a spotlight on mental well-being and the importance of prioritizing your emotional health.

We love that Mental Health has finally started receiving the attention it deserves in public conversations, and that these discussions are working to break down stigma, open up dialogue, and normalize the idea that it’s okay not to be okay.

Awareness is a crucial first step, but it’s only the beginning! Real change requires us to turn that awareness into meaningful, intentional action. So this Mental Health Month, we’re challenging you to start actively engaging in improving your mental wellness.

By making small, powerful choices, you’ll not only be taking care of yourself: you’ll be inspiring those around you and contributing to a more compassionate, supportive society. Let’s explore how you can take A.C.T.I.O.N. this May and beyond!

Assess your mental health needs and the resources available to you

Start by taking an honest inventory of your mental health. Are there aspects of your emotional life that feel neglected or overwhelming?

A great first step is to take a free, confidential mental health screening at mhascreening.org. This can give you a clearer picture of your needs and guide your next steps.

Then, look at what resources are available to you. Do you have access to:

• Health insurance that covers mental health services?
• An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?
• Student wellness services at your school or university?
• A nearby Mental Health America affiliate?
• Reliable internet access for self-help tools or online communities?

No matter your situation, resources exist to support your mental health journey.

Choose a course of action

Once you’ve assessed your needs and available options, it’s time to choose a direction that fits your lifestyle and goals. Your action plan might be as simple as committing to five minutes of deep breathing each morning, or as involved as scheduling a therapy appointment. Simple actions that could be helpful to your mental health practice include:

• Journaling daily
• Listening to a guided meditation
• Exercising regularly
• Creating regular positive affirmations
• Connecting weekly with a friend or mentor

The key is to pick an activity (or combination of activities) that’s achievable and meaningful to you. You can find some more great ideas here.

Take steps toward care

Having a plan is important, but progress comes from action. It might feel overwhelming, but every journey starts with a single step. 

Whether it’s:

• Making a call to a therapist
• Taking a walk around the block
• Downloading a mindfulness app
• Saying no to something that drains you

Even the smallest steps count, so take your first one today. Need some more ideas to get started? Click here for a list of mental health resources.

Identify additional supports

You don’t have to do this alone. Think about who or what helps you feel grounded and supported. This might include:

• A trusted friend or family member
• A support group
• A pet
• A peaceful space in your home

Whether in person, over the phone, or virtual, connection and support are vital parts of mental wellness. And if you can’t think of a trusted support, don’t worry! There are lots of ways to build community. 

Observe what’s working (and what’s not)

As you start making these changes, regularly check in with yourself. Are your new habits helping? What feels sustainable, and what needs adjusting? Make changes as you go. Remember, growth isn’t linear. Stay curious, flexible, and compassionate with yourself, and you’ll start to discover what truly supports your well-being.

Nurture yourself

Mental health thrives on consistent, compassionate care. Self-nurturing looks different for everyone. It could mean:

• Taking a relaxing bath
• Setting boundaries at work
• Practicing gratitude daily
• Attending a community wellness event

Whatever fills your cup, make time for it. You deserve to feel good and to prioritize your own wellbeing, whatever that looks like for you. 

Your Mental Health Matters

This Mental Health Month, remember: every intentional step you take is a win. From small acts of daily care to bold decisions like seeking therapy, you’re investing in a stronger, healthier version of yourself.

We can’t wait to see you turn awareness into A.C.T.I.O.N.!